Cherry MX Red vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Red linear switch to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it's evident that they offer distinct typing experiences. The MX Red is praised for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, resulting in a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is known for its medium-high level of tactility, thanks to its unique two-staged spring design, providing a satisfying typing experience with deep, resonating thocks. While the MX Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', the Shadow switch falls into categories such as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Sharp', 'Accented', 'Snappy', 'Bouncy', and 'Stepped'. Each switch offers unique benefits, catering to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, we can see some distinct differences in sound profiles. The MX Red utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring features polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of polycarbonate's stiffer properties. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound experience.
Despite the differences in material, both the Cherry MX Red and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring achieve similar results in terms of sound quality. The nylon top and bottom housing of the MX Red creates a cohesive sound profile that is deep and full, while the polycarbonate top and bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring results in a sharp and clear sound profile. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference, with the MX Red offering a more muted and rounded sound, and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring providing a more pronounced and defined sound.
Overall, the choice of housing material between nylon and polycarbonate in switches such as the Cherry MX Red and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring can significantly impact the overall typing experience. While nylon offers a softer and more absorptive sound profile, polycarbonate provides a crisper and more resonant sound experience. Whether one prefers a deeper and fuller sound or a sharper and clearer sound, both housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall sound profile of the switch. Ultimately, the decision between nylon and polycarbonate housing materials will come down to individual preferences in sound characteristics and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, we find that the MX Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's 55 grams. This means that the MX Red requires less force to register a keypress, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the MX Red's force is unknown while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a bottom out force of 63 grams, which is slightly higher. This suggests that the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - lighter for longer typing sessions or heavier for a more satisfying tactile experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that pressing down on a key with either switch will result in a similar tactile experience in terms of the distance traveled. Therefore, users can expect consistent results in terms of key travel when using either switch. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures that users will not notice a significant difference in keypress feel based on this factor.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Red switch provides a thocky and low-pitched typing experience, offering a deep and satisfying sound profile that is more bass-heavy and mellow. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, giving off a sharp and crisp tone that is bright and percussive. Depending on your preference for sound, you can choose between the deeper and richer sound of the MX Red or the brighter and crisper sound of the Shadow switch.
Moving on to feel, the Cherry MX Red switch is known for its textured feel, offering a slightly scratchy feedback when pressed. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a sharp, accented, and snappy tactile experience, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. Additionally, the Shadow switch also offers a bouncy and stepped feel, providing a more dynamic and responsive typing experience compared to the MX Red switch.
In conclusion, when comparing the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is important to consider both sound and feel preferences. If you prefer a deeper and more bass-heavy sound with a textured feel, the MX Red switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you are looking for a brighter and crisper sound with a sharp and responsive tactile feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be more ideal. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, along with a smooth and consistent typing experience, the Cherry MX Red may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile typing experience with a medium-high level of tactility and a deep, resonating sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be a great option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
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